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Hello beauties!

As a beauty blogger, I test lots of skincare products. Since facial oils are the rage right now, they are the products I test the most. Although they’re beneficial to my dry skin, testing facial oils can be a wary task. I’d say they are the most challenging to test because results are not necessarily instant and depending on one’s skin, it takes awhile before we see changes or improvements.

I was expecting the status quo when I started to test UK-based Holistic Green Beauty‘s Orchid Cellular Protection oil, but I was rather surprised… Read on to find out more.

Credits: GlowArabesque

The team behind Holistic Green Beauty (HGB)

Like many of us, founders/creators Danny Stokes and Scott Bentley have been through their share of skin issues. They took it upon themselves to research in the hopes of finding cures to their ailments, in doing so, they have succeeded at creating a stellar luxurious all natural skincare brand. I used to read their blog, as I thought it was very informative, so when I heard of the skincare launch, I was intrigued and definitely wanted to support. As soon as I got my package and had the products in my hand, I knew these guys meant business! I love the black and golden label, it gives the brand an effortless timeless elegance. Danny and Scott are deeply committed to provide quality skincare products. All ingredients are natural, raw and wild crafted, and each of them has a purpose that goes beyond the healing of the skin. The products are meant to create a multi-sensory experience in which you can find nurturing and rejuvenation.

Orchid Cellular Protection oil

ultimate “aging with grace” tool! There’s no other way to put it. Within 2 weeks (twice a day), my skin was radiant and healthy looking. I couldn’t stop touching my skin. Most of all, I felt like my skin was “normal” instead of “normal-to-dry”. My problem area, which is my jaw, isn’t itchy anymore, my dry spots are G-O-N-E, not diminished, completely gone! I simply love it! The brand describes this oil as the “anti-ageing hydration oil” that repairs skin at a cellular level and acts as a shield against free radical and UV damage. I can certainly confirm that the Orchid Cellular Protection oil has healed, repaired and regenerated my skin; it does all that, and more! It smells so good; a feast for the senses with a blend of neroli, jasmine, ylang ylang, vanilla and bergamot. The scent is uplifting and energizing, all the while giving me a sense of peace and stillness! Who would’ve thought a facial oil could do so much! The ingredients list is impressive with protective and regenerative Orchid extracts as well as argan, marula, and baobab oils. There’s also ximenia seed oil which has restructuring and anti-ageing effects on skin. Star ingredients also include chia seed oil for their essential fatty acid potent, as well as moisturizing cranberry seed oil, high in antioxidant. The Orchid Cellular Protection oil is perfect for all skin types, it has healing, moisturizing, regenerating and anti-ageing properties…what more do you want?! A side-kick, perhaps? Well, that can be arranged…keep on reading!

Rose Radiance Toning Mist

is AH-mazing! Just the side-kick an oil needs! This mist is a multi-tasker; a skin and body refresher, a skin-glowing potion, a makeup setter, a mood booster, name it…it does it all! Of course, I use it mostly in conjunction with the Orchid Cellular protection oil. I mist my face, neck and hair. I feel like toners are under appreciated and under rated despite their popularity. However, this toning mist is no ordinary one! It includes the organic waters of rose, elderflower and ylang ylang. There’s also vitamin C as well as pomegranate extract. You don’t have to worry about moisture loss, thanks to hyaluronic acid. As we age, we lose collagen, but this toner has marine collagen, which helps stimulate its synthesis. I keep it in the refrigerator, it wakes my skin up and I fully get the toning benefits!

Final thoughts…

I’ll be using this duo all through fall and winter, it’ll keep my skin healthy and nurtured, but will also protect it during the cold days ahead. I’m now on a mission to try their decadent Chocolate cleansing balm!

Have you tried any of the Holistic Green Beauty’s line? What are your thoughts?

Greetings to all!

It’s been a while since I last posted… but here I am!

If you follow me on Instagram, you know that I’m a fan of Graydon Moffat, creator and founder of Canada’s all-natural skincare brand, Clinical Luxury. She was in my neck of the woods on Father’s Day (June 19th) weekend, so I had the immense privilege of meeting her (and hugging her!!!). She is absolutely amazing, extremely smart and she can dissect a food or beauty related product like nobody’s business! I had such a blast with her; we obviously chatted about her brand. There isn’t a product in her entire line that I don’t gush over! It’s so hard to pick a favorite, it seems unfair somehow, like picking a favorite child!!

Now, in my last post, I mentioned my hair transition from relaxed (chemically straightened) to natural (my God-given hair), which is tightly curled, kinky and coily. So, let’s talk about my hair’s new best friend, Clinical Luxury’s Hair Smoothie* . I keep reaching for it, I’ll find any excuse just to put some in my hair!

A treat for your hair and your senses!

Essentially, the Hair Smoothie, which has the color green (of course!) is nutrition for your hair and scalp in the form of a detangler/conditioner. It’s packed with ingredients that keeps your locks healthy. It works amazingly for ALL hair types, even for my tight kinky curls and coils. My hair is also extremely damaged, weak and dry, but this gem is bringing LIFE to it !

Here’s what makes the Hair Smoothie SO great for your hair…

As you may have guessed by the name of the product, it is to your hair what a green smoothie is to your body.

Let’s pretend we’re creating our very own green smoothie, what do we need to make it as healthy as possible? First, we need the usual suspects (fruit and vegetables), then the superfoods and we finish with the add-ons (they make the smoothie so much better). Now, let’s make a hair smoothie!

The star ingredient of this product is…drum roll, please: the broccoli seed oil (also found in one of my favorite facial cream, The Green Cream, another hit from Clinical Luxury)! There’s hope for you, if you used to toss your broccoli on the side of the plate! We all know that dark leafy greens like broccoli provide lots of vitamins and when consumed as part of a healthy diet. Broccoli seed oil, applied on hair, promotes hair growth while strengthening the hair follicles. Now, listen up ladies! We all want healthy shiny hair, right?! Well, broccoli seed oil naturally imparts sheen and luster that is similar to the one silicones give (try to stear clear of those, especially the non-solubles ones!). However, the latter coats your hair shaft, only giving you the illusion that it’s healthy and shiny, while weighing down your hair. As for the former, it actually feeds your hair, leaving it smooth without casting harmful chemicals. Let’s not forget the jojoba, coconut and sunflower seed oils who assist in conditioning and protecting the hair by sealing in the moisture.

Matcha, known to be one of the most powerful green tea, is packed with antioxidants and polyphenols. It also has Vitamin B which, applied to the scalp and hair, translates in panthenol, good for strengthening hair and repairing split ends. Chlorophyll, cleanses and detoxifies, stimulating blood circulation to the scalp, thus allowing oxygen flow to the follicles. Some even say it slows the progression of grey hair.

A beautiful selection of essential oils, such as rosemary, parsley, thyme and sage, stimulate the scalp, as well as encourage hair growth. Thanks to these essential oils, a fresh herbal scent lingers every time I use it! Full disclosure? I sometimes use it as a hand lotion!! (I’m impossible!)

The lavishing Hair Smoothie by Clinical Luxury

Let me count the ways!

Clinical Luxury defines the Hair Smoothie as a “detangler/conditioner“. Oh, it is SO much more! Ok, so, using it as a hand cream may not be wise, I admit! Still, there are many ways to use it, depending on your hair’s needs.

5 ways (and counting!) to use the Hair Smoothie…

Co-wash or cleansing conditioner (If, like me, you have dry hair and scalp, a co-wash can be a great alternative to a shampoo. However, keep in mind that clean hair promotes healthy hair, and the sure way to achieve that is through shampooing regularly, preferably with sulfate free shampoos. I alternate between co-washing and shampooing);

Detangler/Conditioner (it gives a fair amount of slip, free of silicones, but if you have very texturized coarse hair, you might need something heavier, with butters in it);

Leave-In treatment (I have thin/fine hair, its lightweight consistency makes it an ideal leave-in for me);

Deep conditioner (I like dense deep conditioner, so I add a bit of castor oil, after 30 minutes with heating cap, it gives me amazing results, the heat allows the smoothie to penetrate into the hair shaft);

Moisturizer (on damp or dry hair, followed by a lightweight oil, such as jojoba, argan or olive oil to seal in moisture. It leaves no greasy residue or white cast on the hair).

Final thought…

The Hair Smoothie is definitely an essential and a staple in my hair care regimen. Using it has made my detangling session a breeze. Also, I’ve noticed less shedding and breakage. I do have many other conditioners, but for some reason, I always reach for my beloved Hair Smoothie. If it ain’t broke… I just trust that my hair benefits from its regular use, especially with such great botanical ingredients. My main goal is to achieve healthy hair, and healthy hair grows! So, move over, Rapunzel !

Please, share any thoughts or comments below. If you find other ways to use the Hair Smoothie, please let me know!

Greetings!

Now, ladies, we all wear our hair like a crown. We take pride in it…as we should! I’m excited about this review because it marks the beginning of my own “natural hair journey”. Read on if you want to find out…

Why use Briogeo?

Briogeo (pronounced “bree-o geo”) is a modern, eco-chic, socially and environmentally responsible hair care brand for today’s men and women, inclusive of ALL hair types AND textures. What drew me to Briogeo is the encouragement to embrace one’s hair, whether it’s curly or straight, and regardless of what stereotypes society throws at us. I love to support brands that promote and celebrate diversity. So, whether you’re blue-eyed straight blond hair or a curly/coily gal like me, there’s a product for any and every one of us at Briogeo! Founder Nancy Twine, created her brand inspired by her grandmother’s natural concoctions. Briogeo also understands that natural does not mean bland and boring, so the brand set out to harness the most potent and nourishing ingredients found in nature to create hair products that would rival any mainstream hair care line. Mission accomplished! All Briogeo hair products are now sold at Sephora stores nationwide.

A natural hair journey begins…

Be Gentle, Be Kind, Green Tea Shampoo

I hate to say it, but over the years, I have damaged my hair… and prior to testing Briogeo, I was still using mainstream hair care products (shame on me!) … and worse, I was still chemically straightening my hair (Yikes!). It is while testing Briogeo hair products that I decided to unburden myself and free my hair of all chemicals. Yes, I’m going natural! No more relaxers, no more heat, I’m embracing the hair I was born with. I thought: “I’m eating healthy, using mostly natural skincare products, why not go all the way and extend to my hair”. It didn’t make sense to use natural hair care but then still using harsh chemicals to modify my God-given hair. So, I’m now in transition (i.e. I’m not retouching my new roots with chemical straighteners). In general, but especially when transitioning, it’s vital to use a sulfate-free shampoo, such as the Be gentle, be kind, Green tea shampoo*. The formula is gentle on hair but tough enough to get rid of styling products build-up as well as grime. If you have a dry scalp, a sulfate-free shampoo is a must. Sulfates (aka S.L.S. sodium lauryl sulfate) are detergents, they rid your scalp and hair of their natural moisture which can lead to hair loss, as well as scalp issues like redness, itchiness and psoriasis. I’ve been thoroughly testing this shampoo for months now, I can testify to its nurturing benefits. The smell is very pleasant, not overpowering, it smells like Spring, light and refreshing. Initially, I didn’t really care for the watery consistency, because I was used to the sudsy, abrasive, old-school shampoos with rich lather. It still lathers, but not as much, and that’s ok, even if, at first, I didn’t “feel” like it cleansed my scalp. However, after several uses, my hair grew to love the formula. Trust me, gentle is better! We have to remember that scalp is skin, so it needs the same care as our face and body. Other shampoos always left my hair feeling dry and brittle (you know that squeaky clean feel? Yeah, it only means you’ve stripped your hair of its natural oils). This shampoo leaves my hair clean, feeling soft and manageable. The star ingredients are green tea, for a good dose of antioxidants, avocado oil for shine and conditioning, as well as aloe vera for nourishment and soothing of the scalp. My hair was very damaged, but I started to see improvement after a couple of weeks.

Blossom & Bloom Ginseng+Biotin Volumizing Conditioner

I used to skip the conditioning part. It turns out, hair needs to be conditioned after each wash to retain moisture and protect the hair. I usually don’t expect miracles when it comes to hair products, I find some of the claims to be exaggerated and bogus. However, the Blossom & Bloom Volumizing Conditioner* pumps up the volume, thanks to maltodextrin, a natural sugar starch that envelops the hair, so the hair appears fuller without being sticky or weighed down. Ginger supports blood flow to the scalp and biotin strengthens the hair. The best part about this conditioner is that it makes detangling my hair a breeze, therefore reducing breakage and shedding. Because I’m transitioning, my roots are curly/coily and the relaxed parts are straight. But this product provides a great slip, so the detangling practically does itself. It also has a good balance of moisture (aloe vera juice, rosehip and argan oil) as well as protein (hydrolyzed wheat protein) which my hair needs. I can feel my hair getting healthier and nourished as I condition it. I’m expecting more hair growth as I continue using the Briogeo products.

To Be Continued…

For me, the most important, through my hair journey, is to have healthy hair and scalp. Over the years, my hair has gotten so thin and limpy. When I started testing the Briogeo’s shampoo and conditioner, my hair was straight (because of the chemical straightener). Now, I have new growth that’s coily. Clearly, I’ll have to adjust my hair regimen to fit my its needs. I absolutely love the fact that BrioGeo has an understanding of all texturized hair and that it can provide hair care for all of us. Stay tuned for more reviews on Briogeo, I’ll review their deep conditioner and finish oil next. Then, I intend to use their products suited for curls (Curl Charisma line). I’m really loving how my hair reacts to their products. I’ll keep you posted on my hair journey!

Have you tried any of the Briogeo hair care products? Let me know what you think, please!

Greetings Beauties!

February celebrates love and I really wanted to pay tribute to a beloved brand of mine that reminds us to honor the skin we’re in! Ladies and gents, I give you the all natural, luxurious, cult-favorite brand, MAHALO !

To me, Mahalo is a true homage to love and to life; it is a celebration of our skin and a manifestation of how we should treat it. Maryna Bundyuk, founder and creator of the brand, is such a charismatic, passionate woman who has poured her heart and soul into this brand. Her reverence for life, nature (hello beautiful bamboo packaging!) and people are deeply reflected in Mahalo.

Her brand is the result of a labor of love, it is an expression of self-love to be carried out through skincare rituals. Mahalo goes beyond skincare by spreading the inspiring and powerful message of GRATITUDE ( Mahalo means “gratitude” in Hawaiian). For that reason (and of course, for the gazillion skincare benefits), this brand is one of my go-to’s. In a world where beauty and skincare issues are considered superficial, I find it so refreshing that Mahalo sparks such a profound sentiment. I really believe in practicing gratitude every day, no matter what the circumstances. It helps me focus on the positive and move forward. So, what does gratitude have to do with beauty, you ask? I believe true beauty starts from within, with not only what we eat, but with cultivating positive thoughts, moral values and constructive behaviors.

My Mahalo Staples

Vitality Elixir Rejuvenated Serum

For maximal hydration, I layer the Vitality Elixir serum and the balm.

This serum is one of my favorites. For my dry skin, I find it has the right consistency. In the winter, I use day and night. The Vitality Elixir Rejuvenated Serum* gives me the skin I’ve always dreamed of; the “I woke up like this” skin! I even use it around my eyes. Ever since I started to use it, I’ve noticed that I need less makeup. Before using it, the skin on my lower face was very dry, rough and looked dull. After consistent use, my skin is deeply moisturized, less itchy and back to its normal state. This serum is truly a powerhouse, and if anti-aging is a concern of yours, this is what you need to try. Let’s talk ingredients, shall we? If you’re looking for high-quality ingredients, look no further. Tamanu oil is known for being restorative with anti-inflammatory benefits. Then, we have the greatest Omega 3 source in chia seeds, not to mention Sea Buckthorn oil; one of the highest source of vitamin C. Another skin superfood included in this serum is turmeric, a golden plant that treats acne and skin inflammation. The scent of the serum is a bit nutty but I don’t mind it at all. My skin drinks it, so it stays hydrated and well fed.

If you know me, you know I’m all about the balms! I have very dry skin, and the cold weather makes it worse. The Mahalo Balm* is THE moisturizing, healing balm everyone needs in their beauty cabinet, no matter what your skin type is.

It’s one of my daily essentials, the kind you need when stranded on a deserted island! It’s so multi-purpose: I use it on my face, on body scars, under my eyes, on any dry spots, on my chapped and cracked lips, in my hair, to tame my eyebrows, etc. On colder days, I’ve tried it many times under makeup, and it actually gives me dewy skin, no greasy cheeks. It protects my skin and gives me maximum moisture when I layer it over the Vitality Serum. When my skin is completely dehydrated or in need of major TLC, I’ll use it as an overnight mask (just a thin layer, don’t overdo it). I wake up with plumped and deeply moisturized skin. I find that it retains moisture, so I don’t have to re-apply moisturizer or toners during the day. In addition to turmeric, which gives it the gorgeous bright orange color, the Mahalo Balm has avocado and grapeseed butters, macadamia nut, carrot and rosehip oils. The exotic scent of lavender, geranium and Hawaiian sandalwood will make you think you’re in paradise! For me, this balm is a necessity, it does it all!

We all experience different “seasons” in our lives, right? Well, so does our skin! Is your skin oily? Than you’re in Summer. As for me, I have the driest skin, so I’m in between autumn and winter. Here are my thoughts on a beautiful seasonal skincare brand, aptly named Saison Beauty. Saison is French for “season”. Find out about your season!

The Concept of Saison Beauty

Saison Beauty’s foundation is inspired by the changing seasons of the year. The products are designed to nourish and restore skin throughout the seasons. Founder Julie Kim’s approaches to skincare is akin to the one we have with food. The products are beautifully handcrafted in small batches with the purest, freshest ingredients and plants produced during that time of the year for each season. So the fruit, plants, or nuts you would normally eat in any given season, are the ones you’ll find in the products for that particular season. Also, like food, the products are perishable (because they are natural, therefore free from preservatives), so they have to be used within a reasonable timeline.

Season Versus Skin Type

Saison Beauty’s recommendation is to choose based on the season of the moment. Julie states that the notion of “skin type” is very fluid because it changes in the course of the year. I’m inclined to agree with that; I usually have dry skin, but it changes from time to time. In the summer, I have normal or combination skin (normal skin with an oilier T-zone).

Some of you may consistently maintain the same skin type during the year or your skin may not be affected by the weather. If that is your case, Saison Beauty has a designated season for your skin type.

Every range has 3 products to be used daily; the Cleansing Oil, the Botanical Lotion Spray and the Moisturizer, and 1 product to be used weekly; the Cleansing Grains.

The 3-step regimen skincare: Autumn/Dry skin

Although the fall season is over, if you have dry skin, the Autumn range is ideal for you. I tested the line weeks into fall, just as my skin was starting to get dryer and itchy. Let me say, the products are great individually, but as a whole, the results are much more significant when you use the 4 products all together.

Autumn Cleansing Oil

Keeps your skin soft and hydrated

If you haven’t tried a cleansing oil thus far, this would be a great way to start. Cleansing oils are beneficial to all skin types. The Autumn Cleansing Oil* , a non-foaming cleanser, gently removes dirt, grime and even makeup. It doesn’t strip your natural oils and leaves your skin moisturized and fresh. I really love it, it’s in my travel bag and it has become a go-to, especially in my night routine. I make sure I massage it on my skin to let all the goodness and moisture sink in. Then I wipe with a lukewarm cloth.

Autumn Cleansing Grains

The simplest way is to use with water, but I prefer aloe vera or rose water. It makes a great foundation for a gentle exfoliation mask in which you can use the ingredient of your choice (i.e. greek yogurt, raw honey, avocado, banana, etc). These cleansing grains leave skin soft and rejuvenated. As you know, exfoliation helps all other skincare products perform better. The grains are enhanced with organic rice and milk, natural clay, and honey powders. Also, the fruit enzymes will naturally exfoliate dry and damaged skin, so that clear, healthy skin will show. That’s right, glow on, ladies…and gents!

Autumn Botanical Lotion Spray

It is made with Aloe vera water and floral waters, so it’s very soothing for the skin, refreshing and very hydrating. It brings my skin back to life while it calms the itchiness. I layer it with the Autumn moisturizer before and after. The scent is invigorating and clean, which I love. I always make sure I breathe in when I spray it on, it’s like standing in a field of lavender. The fragrance comes solely from pure essentials oils (herbal notes and lavender). This product is a great way to freshen up your skin during the day. I must say: it’s one of the few toners I can use after my makeup application, thanks to the fine, light mist evenly distributed by the mister. It is perfection! Some misters will splash all over your face, and I hate to ruin a perfect cat-eye! Kudos for the practical packaging!

Autumn Moisturizer

Use the Botanical Lotion Spray with the Moisturizer for best results.

When the colder seasons set in, my main concerns for my skin are moisture and nourishment. Saison Beauty tackles both issues with this moisturizer. The wonder oils included in this gem are so beneficial for the skin. Pumpkin oil is an amazing moisturizer; the essential fatty acids provide moisture without greasiness and regulate skin oils, which makes it great for dry and oily skins (especially if you’re acne prone). Another star included in this product is the Rice oil. Also a great moisturizer and hydrating agent, it is potent in antioxidants which protect skin against free-radical damaging UV rays. There’s also Rosehip oil and Wheat germ oil, not to mention the best of floral and plant waters. The consistency of this cream is ideal for those who want moisture without the heaviness.

Make sure you use the Botanical Lotion Spray before you apply this moisturizer, you’ll get optimal results. Because my skin is so so dry, this moisturizer alone is not enough at night or during the colder days of winter. I find myself going back and forth between this one and the Winter Moisturizer* (suited for Mature skin, it keeps my skin highly protected, nourished and moisturized). I am currently testing the Winter range, so stay tuned!

Final thought…

I believe Saison Beauty focuses on the most important thing: nourishing ingredients. Let’s not forget that skin is a living organ, so it needs to be fed in order to be healthy. I love that the products are packaged in pumps, so you get ALL of the goodness to the last drop, no waste! I also love their streamlined regimen. It’s simple, practical and yields true results. I promise, your skin will love it!

So, what season is your skin in lately? Would you pick based upon your skin type or upon the season of the year? Let me know what you think !

Greetings, beauties!

Fall is the season of change and transition. The days get shorter, the leaves start to change colors…and it gets colder! But what does that mean for your skin? Do lackluster skin, low levels of moisture and cracked lips sound familiar? Fret not, I got you covered with some great products you’ll need this season.

Undo sun damage

Best post-summer care. After all the excesses of summer (sunburns due to sun worshiping!), it’s time to get your skin into rehab and give it the nurturing it yearns for. I love using Kahina Giving Beauty‘s Kahina Giving Beauty Brightening serum*, if you give it time and are consistent with your routine, it will help fade discoloration and hyperpigmentation, which will in turn even out your skin tone. I did notice a slight change around my jaw, where it was darker. If you have acne scars, this will help you tremendously. I love the silky texture of this serum, it absorbs fast and leaves your skin feeling velvety . This argan oil based serum also protects against future environmental aggressors (thanks to the antioxidants blend) and lessens the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. If you’re familiar with Kahina Giving Beauty, you know it’s a powerhouse and you can’t miss, whatever the product. This brightening serum is a hit!

Reveal new skin

‘Tis the season for pumpkins! Pumpkins have so many benefits whether you take them internally or externally. Elaa Skincare’s Pumpkin Radiance/Renewing enzyme mask* is by far one of my favorite exfoliating masks! Pumpkins are filled with enzymes and alpha hydroxy acids (AHA) that remove impurities and dead skin, which promotes skin renewal and will give you the most radiant skin. Pumpkin seed oil contains the fatty acids necessary to moisturize and protect your skin. This mask also has raw Manuka honey, perfect to heal any cracked or dry skin, irritations, burns as well as eczema and psoriasis. There’s also a plethora of spices, such as ginger, cinnamon and turmeric. If you have sensitive skin, it might tingle a bit upon first application, so proceed with caution:do a patch test before. Elaa Skincare is a an organic brand focused on raw, living and active ingredients as well as superfoods. Believe me, this mask is a treat! Everytime I use it, I’m amazed that my skin can look so radiant and glowing.

Recharge your skin

As the colder temperatures set in, my skin gets dehydrated. I generally have normal to very dry skin, so I’m always reaching for a facial oil. However, my skin also needs to be quenched. Enters Graydon Moffat and her genius brand, Clinical Luxury. If you follow my Instagram account, you know how gaga I am for this Canadian brand. I’ve reviewed the Serum, here. I’m an oil and balm hoarder, but I love this brand’s creams and lotions. They are made with the most natural ingredients that literally feed the skin. The Putty* is a great pick, if you want to transition from your summer gels and light lotions to this season’s heavier creams and facial oils. It’s the perfect balance of liquids (mainly aloe vera juice and rose water) and oils (avocado, buriti, seabuckthorn oils among others). This lotion is so soothing you’ll forget about your skin woes! The Putty is amazing for all skin types, but is ideal for sensitive/reactive skins. If you have any dermatological issue, it will help calm redness and irritation. I like the light and fluffy consistency, but it doesn’t change the fact that it’s a very moisturizing cream. When I need an extra boost of moisture in the winter, I simply add 3 drops of the Serum to the Putty, and voilà!

Butter up!

Ooooh! This body butter is a dream for your skin! I don’t know how I ever made it without it! The texture is off the charts! I’m talking about a luscious, sultry texture making your skin feel like it’s cashmere! Made of a combination of shea and cacao butters as well as jojoba and coconut oils it just melts onto your skin when you apply it, while the warm, relaxing scent comforts you. I’ve said it enough times: I have the driest skin. So, this Metta Body butter* is a godsent. It truly restores my skin’s elasticity, keeps my skin moisturized for hours on end. No more ashy skin either! With each application, my skin gets smoother and softer. I have old scars left from minor surgeries that are getting less noticeable. Even though there’s a thick consistency to this butter, it sinks quickly into my skin and leaves no greasy residue on my clothes. I’m going to use this butter all through the winter. I can’t do without it anymore!

Keep that summer glow!

Summer is over, but SO WHAT? There’s no reason for you to lose that glow, girl! Face Glow* pulls double-duty: it’s skincare with the attributes of a cosmetic product. I’ve been loving it ever since I started testing it! It’s amazing in the summer, but it also works all year. First, it is NOT a highlighter, so don’t expect that strobing effect (read: highlighter on steroids)! Face Glow is a lotion that will instantly brighten your skin and impart a nice subtle glow. Graydon uses brown mica: a free flowing lustrous powder with a shimmering copper appearance, used to reflect light, which creates a pearlescent effect on skin. Nourishing ingredients such as pumpkin, raspberry and seabuckthorn oils moisturize while giving your skin the fatty acids it needs to look fresh and young. Your skin will also be protected against the environmental elements. I really can’t say enough about this product: I use it as a primer or alone, for a fresh-faced look. I even put a bit on my decolleté. The possibilities are endless! Ladies, you need this in your handbag!

Greetings beauties!

I’m back! So happy to be back blogging and to be out and about doing what I love, sharing my passion of green beauty. I have so much to talk about in the coming weeks (e.g. overdue reviews), but I respectfully ask for your patience. Please, bear with me. Thank you!

Now, let’s get started!

Because I’m still in convalescence and in need of much TLC, I thought it was the perfect opportunity to delve into bath rituals. With all the superb bath concoctions the green beauty industry has to offer, my bath time has now become a ritual. I’m usually drawn to showers, simply due to the fact that they are less time-consuming. Nevertheless, the benefits of baths rituals go far beyond hygiene; taking a bath is a simple way to unwind, to detox our skin and to restore it. I’ve been incorporating them as part as my sleep routine, and they have improved my sleep. Here’s a look at 2 bath rituals I indulge in…

Detoxify and Restore…

Fun fact: In Sanskrit, Malaya means a “garland of flowers”. How beautiful!

Armed with an impressive background on herbalism, natural perfumery, product formulation, aromatherapy and research, natural beauty and founder of Malaya Organics, Katya Slepak created a facial and body line of products with the purest ingredients to nourish and to restore the skin.

I really can’t get enough of Organic Bath Salts in Lavender and Vanilla Absolute*. WARNING: it’s addictive! For me, everything has now become an excuse to take a bath using Malaya Organics‘ Bath Salts. Truth be told, I was originally afraid of bath salts because I thought they would dry out my crocodile skin. Not the case with these natural goodies!! Bath salts are usually beneficial to detox and aid in the remineralization of the body. This was the first time I’d use bath salts… (I know, I know…I’ve been missing out!). As I pour the salts into the running water, I’m captivated by the blend of floral and sweet notes of lavender and vanilla. Party for my senses!! Within minutes soaking, I’m relaxed and I can feel my body releasing tension and giving into comfort and ease. All of a sudden, time stops and nothing else matters.

After the bath…

This bath ritual is not complete without the delectable Citrus & Bloom Organic Moisturizing Body Oil* . I’m dreading the day where I’ll be out of this oil! I use it after a bath or shower, but also in lieu of perfume: it moisturizes my skin and leaves a fresh fragrance. The scent of this body oil is subtle but still very alluring; the sweet citrus notes enliven my spirits as notes of Jasmine and of Neroli bring a soft feminine floral touch. My skin is left moisturized, revitalized and soft. I’m feeling peaceful and centered, and I smell sooo good! Aaahh! Ready to hit the sheets!

Indulge in a milk bath…

I consider this product my special treat after a grueling hospital treatment. When I get home, I’m so exhausted, I’m in pain, I’m anxious and a little down, but this is the perfect antidote! BEING is a minimalistic 100% natural, socially responsible brand whose creator, Cynthia Cortina, believes in “BEING” in the moment by creating self-care rituals that give us a sense of purpose and depth in life.

Bath ritual: As part of my ritual, I do dry brushing before taking a bath to help shed impurities; then, I quickly rinse in a shower before heading in the bath.

When using Release Milk Bath*, I create my own sanctuary, a sacred moment that brings healing to my skin and peace to my
soul. Once comfortable in the water, I take time to reflect on my day, I pray, or whatever else comes naturally to me, in that moment. It’s not about taking a bath for the sake of hygiene, it’s about taking time for yourself, a true self-care moment that comes from within and that will impact your life in a positive way…

Remember the television ad: “Milk, it does a body good!” Turns out, it wasn’t so far fetch, except, it had nothing to do with our bones! Historically, milk baths have been used by the most notorious queens, such as Cleopatra (who used fermented sour milk, yikes!) and Elizabeth I of England. Milk baths can improve skin’s appearance. The lactic acid in the milk removes dead skin cells and encourages skin cell renewal. The cocoa butter and coconut milk in Release Milk Bath will soften and moisturize your skin. This aromatic bath product also helps me release any tension thanks to the Sandalwood essential oil. I probably use more than I should, but I really can’t resist the “creaminess” of the water and how it glides on my skin. The subtle scent of coconut takes me back to my teenage years when my grandmother used to make us creamy coconut pudding. My favorite part is seeing the rosebuds here and there laying in the water. There’s a certain sensual and sexual appeal to a milk bath with rose petals caressing your skin! Roses have a way of making a woman feel like a woman! It works for me! After a couple of minutes drenched in this milky concoction, I’m feeling like myself again!

I could soak all night long… Alas, when I do manage to get out of the bath, I generously mist Hold On Floral Tonic*. Technically, it’s a face mist, but I mist all over, whenever! The main ingredient is rose water, so it makes for a great companion to the Release Milk Bath. I finish with a body oil or body butter.

Final Thought…

Bath rituals are now treasured moments of self-care where time stops. We live in such a fast-paced society; I don’t to wake up one day wondering where the heck has time gone by. YOLO, people, YOLO (e.g. You Only Live Once!)!! Don’t wait for New Year’s to make that resolution, start today! We owe it to ourselves to pamper and nurture our skin, body and mind. Give yourself permission, go on… Treat yourself!